Kent Mother Calls for Enhanced Psychological Support for Families of Children with Cancer

A mother from Kent is advocating for psychological assistance for families whose children are diagnosed with cancer, following her own daughter’s diagnosis at eight years old. Kate, a resident of Whitstable, asserts that the current system inadequately supports families such as hers, who are left with “next to nothing while trying to navigate the shock, trauma and heartbreak” concurrently with “caring for their poorly child and family”. Her daughter, Amber, received a diagnosis of the uncommon cancer synovial sarcoma in 2018. Following five surgical operations, six weeks of radiotherapy, and various other medical interventions, she was deemed cancer-free in 2020; however, she now experiences post-traumatic stress disorder. The National Health Service (NHS) has been contacted for a statement regarding the matter. Kate stated, “Parents and families should be able to access immediate psychological support when their child receives a cancer diagnosis, and this support should be ongoing throughout their family’s journey.” She added, “For the first few weeks after Amber was diagnosed, I felt I could barely function.” Kate further commented, “Yet parents are having to manage their wellbeing while being confronted with their worst possible nightmare – there is a 12-week waiting list for psychological support from the NHS.” In March 2024, Kate established the Sarcoma Parents Support Group. The organization has since expanded to include over 20 members who convene monthly online to exchange experiences and hear from expert presenters. Carly McDonald, a Sarcoma UK Support line advisor, remarked, “More extensive, comprehensive, immediate and ongoing support is needed.” She continued, “The psychological impact on patients and their families can be profound and long-lasting.” McDonald concluded, “We’re committed to advocating for enhanced support services within the NHS to meet these crucial needs.” For further engagement, BBC Kent can be followed on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story submissions may be sent to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp at 08081 002250. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC bears no responsibility for the content of external sites. Details regarding their approach to external linking are available.